Stained Glass is a gorgeous, creative artwork. I chose stained glass because I am fascinated by the work that goes into making these simply magical pieces of art. They show past, present, & sometimes predictions of the future. Stained glass is most commonly found in churches a decorative addition, and may also serve as artwork to illustrate a certain event in the Bible. This piece of stained glass shows Adam delving, and dates back to circa 1176 AD. It is located in The Canterbury Catherdral in the West Window of the Church. The Caterbury Cathedral is renown for its stained glass.
Stained glass is used for worship in many instances. "Light, as the first act of God’s creation, was seen as the purest manifestation of God’s presence, and stained glass windows come to life only when illuminated by light." Basically, the early theologians thought that glass was brought to "life" through God's presence (light). Thus, you are worshipping God.
Stained glass has been manufactured since ancient times, around the 10th Century. The glass is made by putting metallic salts into the glass, or the colors painted onto the glass and then annealed (heated & then allowed to cool). The stained glass windows were considered to be sacred. Many people in ancient times could not read, so stained glass also served a story teller for those who could not read. Thus, the windows were made.
Stained Glass
Citation(s):
<http://www.canterbury-cathedral.org/history/stainedglass.aspx>.
<http://www.theglasskingdom.com/abriefhistoryofstainedglass.php>.